AFL great Billy Brownless says he’s never seen a better line-up of talent, predicting a Thursday night shootout as the AFL Legends Game returns.

Victoria and the All Stars will go head to head following the successful return of the clash last year, which saw more than $1 million raised for prostate cancer research.

Last year the All Stars edged the clash in a thriller, but Brownless, who will help cover the game alongside great mate Robert ‘Dipper’ DiPierdomenico as part of Channel 7’s star-studded commentary team, is predicting an even higher level of skill this time round.

“I don’t know if I’ve ever seen a better lot of players on the one ground at the one team; it’s unbelievable really when you look through it,” he told The West Australian.

“They’re all pretty fit or still playing virtually, whereas in my day, me and others were probably carrying a bit, so I don’t know if there are going to be too many fatties like when I played,” he joked.

“I tell you what there is a lot of goal of the year footballers like Eddie Betts who’s kicked four and Buddy Franklin and all that, there’s some bloody talent on show.”

With stars like Dustin Martin and Gary Ablett on show, there is no shortage of talent, though Brownless is backing the battle of the forwards to be blockbuster viewing.

“It will be interesting to see where Buddy plays, but I’ve got him down for four. Someone who always takes this pretty seriously and kicks a lot of goals and points is Brendan Fevola, so I’ve put him down for five or six.

“For once we’ll see not eight goals each but 20 goals each, play positive footy and they always seem to be close these games so look out.”

Brownless predicted the All Stars to defend their title but did say the pressure was on Channel 7 expert Kane Cornes to deliver as coach.

“I’m an All-Star, so I’ll stick with them, with Kane in the chair; geez, he’ll want to coach well, or I reckon there will be some players and ex-players having a crack at him, which will be a turnaround,” he said.

Comedian Dave Hughes is returning for Victoria despite being left hospitalised after last year’s encounter after breaking his ribs.

Brownless warned him not to expect any sympathy.

“I think a couple of blokes will line up and I think he’ll need some padding. It will be interesting to see if he comes out with any because I can’t believe he’s playing again, to be honest,” he said.

“There will be all sorts of entertainment, and it all goes to a very good charity, which is what it’s all about

“It will be great viewing and have a bit of fun with is so I reckon there will be a great atmosphere down at Marvel.”

The AFL Legends game will be boradcasst live and free on 7 and 7plus with coverage from 5pm AWST